Steampunks for a new Europe

I want to be a steampunk – one of that rather jolly gang who dress in Victorian style, tote “eye”-pads and discourse on the finer points of H G Wells. I’d fit in rather well, with my peculiar taste for ancient sci-fi, enjoyment of the company of the Roma and love of science (but complete inability to understand most of it). Besides which I have a rather wonderful silver-haired Edwardian style husband who would look fabulous in a tweed outfit with a weskit. 

The thing that most appeals is the sense of optimism and endeavour; the lovely feeling that technology can make the world a better place, and that you should never forget to say a polite word and doff your cap. As I trudge into the office to write about human trafficking, neo-Nazis and the failures of democracy, the steampunks ‘ sunny disposition seems a thousand miles away from the real world. 

Yet in my new avatar (Lady Kathryn Boppington- Twatt or some such) I must attempt to bring the values of yesteryear to bear on the sad gloom of today. Well, why not?

Potter into the office on the penny farthing, salute the guardians of the law at the main portal. Calls from those chaps at the wireless about that white-slaving report: child gangs on the streets of England, too appalling!! But reason will prevail surely, as we chide the leaders of that great nation to secure protection for these poor mites. 

Our Great Forum on democracy is approaching in the most promising manner, and all will be revealed at the meetings here in our hallowed Palais on the 8^th to 12^th of October next.  We will be inviting a large number of courageous bloggers from the empires of Russia and Turkey, and even the Orient , where recent Exciting Events may encourage us all in pursuit of this great task. Democracy is one of our most fundamental values!  No more are we in a world where we have to throw ourselves under horses! Votes for all !

The Swiss, I hear, have invented a charming machine to count votes. Could see it used in the next American Presidential elections I wager! A great day for democracy indeed!